optogeneetika

Optogenetics is a technique that combines genetics and optics to control and monitor specific cells in living organisms. It involves the use of light-sensitive proteins, called opsins, which are derived from light-sensitive organisms such as bacteria and algae. These opsins can be genetically engineered to be activated by specific wavelengths of light, allowing researchers to control cellular activity with high precision.

The most commonly used opsin in optogenetics is channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2), which is derived from the green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. When exposed to blue light, ChR2 forms a cation channel that allows the influx of positively charged ions, leading to depolarization of the cell membrane and the initiation of action potentials. This allows for the activation of neurons and other excitable cells.

Another type of opsin used in optogenetics is halorhodopsin (NpHR), which is derived from the marine bacterium Natronomonas pharaonis. NpHR is activated by yellow light and functions as an anion channel, allowing the efflux of negatively charged ions and hyperpolarizing the cell membrane. This can inhibit the activity of neurons and other excitable cells.

Optogenetics has been widely used in neuroscience research to study the function of specific neural circuits and to develop new therapies for neurological disorders. It has also been applied in other fields, such as cancer research and stem cell biology, to control and monitor cellular activity. The ability to precisely control and monitor specific cells in living organisms has opened up new avenues for understanding and manipulating biological systems.